Nankang is Taiwan's oldest tyre maker and a value-performance brand with an unusually loyal enthusiast following. Where many value names aim only at price, Nankang has built a reputation among keen drivers, especially for affordable semi-slicks.
Where it sits
Value to mid-market, with a sporty lean. The pitch is performance-minded tyres at a value price from a long-established maker, which gives it more credibility than a typical budget name. Where that lands is set out under mid-range tyres.
What it is known for
- Value-performance, with a keen-driver following
- The NS-2R semi-slick, popular for track days and fast road use
- A broad line that also covers everyday touring and all-season
The ranges that matter
- NS-2R and Sportnex, semi-slick and performance
- NA-1 and N-607+, touring
- Cross Seasons: all-season
How it compares
Against premium performance tyres, Nankang gives up some ultimate wet composure and longevity, which is the trade for the price. Against unbranded budgets it is a clear step up, an established maker with a genuine motorsport-flavoured reputation. For track-day drivers in particular, its semi-slicks offer a way into proper grip without the premium outlay, which is exactly why the enthusiast scene rates it.
Where they are made
Nankang manufactures in Taiwan and China, so a tyre's origin depends on the model and size shown on the sidewall.
Who they suit
Modifiers, track-day drivers and keen drivers on a budget, and value buyers who want a sporty tyre from an established maker. If you want semi-slick grip without premium money, Nankang is the obvious name. Matching the range to the car is covered under matching tyres to how you drive.
From the reviews desk: Nankang is the brand the modifying scene quietly swears by. The NS-2R has introduced a lot of people to semi-slick grip on a budget, and the wider range is honest value. Not a premium tyre, but a knowing one, with a following the price tag does not explain on its own.
Sources and accuracy. This is a general brand profile at the time of writing; specific performance should be read from a current, dated independent test in your size. If anything here looks wrong, get in touch and we will check it and put it right.
Common questions
Are Nankang tyres any good?+
Nankang is Taiwan's oldest tyre maker and a respected value-performance brand, with a particularly strong following in the modifying and track scene for its semi-slick tyres. It sits in the value-to-mid market and offers sporty performance for the money, with the current dated test in your size the best specific guide.
Is Nankang a budget brand?+
Nankang sits at the value end rather than the cheapest budget tier. It is an established maker with decades of history, and its performance and semi-slick tyres in particular have a reputation that outstrips the price.
What is Nankang known for?+
Value-performance and a strong enthusiast following. The NS-2R semi-slick is a popular, affordable track and fast-road tyre, and the brand is well known in the car modifying scene, alongside everyday touring and all-season ranges.
Where are Nankang tyres made?+
Nankang is a Taiwanese company, the oldest on the island, and manufactures in Taiwan and China. The origin of a specific tyre depends on its model and size and is marked on the sidewall.